Contra Dancing is an American folk dance form that was all the rage in the 1800's.It is similar to square dancing in that the moves are "called" but is danced in lines (like a Virginia Reel) rather than squares. A deriviative of popular folk dance forms from the late 18th century, the dancers form two parallel lines that run the length of the hall. The dances consist of a sequence of moves that end with couples having progressed one position up or down the set. As the sequence is repeated, a couple will eventually dance with every other couple in the set. Some of the Contra Dances included in the Flora Macdonald Ball program will be taught and demonstrated so that beginners or those with no experience will have an opportunity to participate. For more information on this dance form please see links below.
If you would like to participate in some of the more advanced contra dances we encourage you to attend one of the local Contra Dance Groups noted in the "Dance Groups" section of this website.
